Managed cultivation of shellfish and crustaceans in Massachusetts originated with the native Americans and was adopted by the early settlers on Cape Cod. It was not until the 1970s and 1980s, however, that efficient and viable hatchery and grow-out techniques were proven effective on a larger, commercial scale.

Today, aquaculture in Massachusetts is estimated to have a value of $8.6 million. The industry is roughly split between inland and marine aquaculture in terms of economic value. The inland (and shoreside) industry is comprised primarily of recirculating facilities located in the western part of the state, in New Bedford, Boston, and Cape Cod. These facilities produce hybrid striped bass, tilapia, trout, summer flounder, and other finfish. The marine aquaculture industry in Massachusetts mainly produces quahogs (hard clams) and oysters, with small quantities of scallops, soft shell clams, and mussels. The marine aquaculture industry is concentrated on Cape Cod and the Islands with some producers on the South and Southeastern Coasts.

The potential for aquaculture to flourish in this state has been constrained by several factors including the regulatory framework, business climate, public acceptability, and user conflict. To assist in overcoming these constraints, Massachusetts Coastal Zone Management (CZM) was charged with initiating a strategic planning process. That planning process concluded in October of 1995 with the release of the Aquaculture White Paper and Strategic Plan. The Plan describes the aquaculture industry in Massachusetts, identifies barriers to development, and proposes 68 recommendations to restore this industry. Since the release of the Plan, many of the recommendations have been implemented including the designation of a lead agency (Department of Food and Agriculture), and appointment of an Aquaculture Coordinator, formation of an industry advisory group, establishment of a grants program, and regulatory streamlining. CZM continues to work with the Department of Food and Agriculture in implementing the recommendations of the Plan.

• Table of Contents for the Massachusetts Aquaculture White Paper
  
• Table of Contents for the Massachusetts Aquaculture Strategic Plan
  
• The Department of Food and Agriculture's Aquaculture website